What Are Some Effective Strategies For Programming A Dynamic Display AAC Device To Facilitate Core Word Vocabulary Instruction For A Student With Severe Apraxia Of Speech, Who Is Simultaneously Learning To Use A Switch-accessed Scanning System, And How Can I Measure The Student's Progress In Vocabulary Development Using A Standardized Assessment Tool Such As The AAC Profile?

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To effectively instruct a student with severe apraxia of speech using a dynamic display AAC device and a switch-accessed scanning system, and to measure their progress with the AAC Profile, consider the following structured approach:

Strategies for Instruction:

  1. Core Vocabulary Focus:

    • High-Frequency Words: Prioritize core words that are essential for daily communication, such as "go," "make," and "the."
    • Modeling: Use the AAC device yourself to model sentences, encouraging the student to imitate and use the words in context.

  2. AAC Device Setup:

    • Logical Layout: Organize core words in a consistent and predictable manner, possibly categorizing them for easier navigation.
    • Visual Supports: Incorporate symbols or pictures to aid word recognition, especially for those with visual learning strengths.

  3. Aided Language Stimulation:

    • Engage in conversations using the AAC device, prompting the student to respond or repeat phrases, adjusting complexity as they progress.

  4. Scanning Training:

    • Adjustments: Fine-tune scan speed and switch accessibility to meet the student's motor needs.
    • Motor Practice: Use games or exercises to enhance scanning accuracy and efficiency.

  5. Interest-Based Learning:

    • Integrate the student's interests into vocabulary lessons to increase engagement, such as using car-related words if they are passionate about cars.

  6. Gradual Expansion:

    • Progress from single words to phrases, encouraging the construction of simple sentences as skills develop.

Measurement of Progress with the AAC Profile:

  1. Baseline Assessment:

    • Use the AAC Profile to evaluate the student's initial communication skills, symbol understanding, and device navigation.

  2. Goal Setting:

    • Develop specific, measurable goals, e.g., "The student will use 10 core words to communicate needs with 80% accuracy."

  3. Data Collection:

    • Track the frequency, accuracy, and contextual use of core words through observations and tests.
    • Monitor functional communication and navigation efficiency on the AAC device.

  4. Progress Evaluation:

    • Regularly administer the AAC Profile to assess advancements in communication skills and device usage.
    • Adjust instructional strategies based on assessment outcomes to refine teaching methods.

By systematically implementing these strategies and assessments, the student's progress in core vocabulary development and AAC use can be effectively supported and measured.